The average ACT composite score for Iowa students this year was 22.4, which is the same as last year. Iowa has the second highest average composite score for states testing the majority of their graduating seniors. Minnesota is again first with 22.7 out of a possible 36.
"Today's numbers show that Iowa's students are some of the best in the nation," said Governor Chet Culver. "Yet, while these are numbers are impressive, we must continue to strive for educational excellence. As Governor, I will continue to do everything possible to make our schools some of the best in the world, and give our children every opportunity for future success."
Read more: Iowa Second in the Nation for the Highest Average ACT Composite Score
The Iowa Department of Education recently honored this year's state finalists for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) during a luncheon at the Science Center of Iowa in Des Moines.
The 2009 Iowa Legislature adopted new laws related to Iowa’s Sex Offender Registry (SOR). This bill makes a number of changes to Iowa’s sex offender statute and moves Iowa toward compliance with the federal Adam Walsh Act. While there are some new details about who has to register, etc., generally the law prevents those on the sex offender registry from being present on school grounds.
Iowa Department of Education Director Judy Jeffrey extends her deepest sympathy to the Aplington-Parkersburg School District community on the death of Ed Thomas.
"This is a school district that has suffered much in the last several months with the loss of its high school due to a tornado last spring and now the loss of a beloved teacher, coach, and mentor. The community's love and respect for Coach Thomas is a profound example of the impact a teacher and outstanding individual can have not only on students in a school, but an entire community. My thoughts are with the staff, students, and families of Aplington-Parkersburg."
Today Iowa received the 21st Century Skills Practice of the Year Award, which is sponsored by the Partnership for 21st Century Skills and commemorates the country's preeminent state-led education reform initiatives. Specifically, the award recognizes states that are incorporating knowledge and 21st century skills into classrooms.
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